HCRI Forward to join Cougars in the Fall of 2026
WARWICK, RI – Colin Budd, forward for HC Rhode Island, has committed to Misericordia University for the 2026-2027 season.
Budd has recorded 8 goals and 9 assists this season for 17 total points. He has spent two years in the league, though his first season was cut short after just two games due to injury. Since returning, he has overcome that setback and become a consistent contributor for a team that currently sits third overall in the league.
His coach spoke about the trust and reliability Budd brings to the lineup. “Colin is and has been a pleasure to coach and see grow. He has made himself such a valuable piece of what has been a record breaking team for our organization. He plays hard, strong, won’t lose a battle, while also contributing offensively. I know in critical situations defensively I can look down the bench, tap him and feel good about what he will give us!”
He also highlighted Budd’s character, resilience, and the foundation that shaped him. “Colin and the entire Budd family should be proud. They are not a good family, they are a GREAT family who cares fully. Colin was injured in game number two last season, blew his ACL, he had surgery and battled to be ready for 2025-26. What impressed me the most and made this all worth it, is we strive to provide positive life experiences for our guys, the rest just happens. During the playoffs, Colin and his Dad flew from Chicago to come out for a couple of games – because of what being with the guys and the team meant to him – that made all we do worth it for our staff! Misericordia does not yet know the quality of human they are getting on their campus – they will soon!”
Budd reflects on why this opportunity was the right fit for him and acknowledges the community that supported him throughout his journey. “I am excited to have the opportunity to continue my academic and athletic journey at Misericordia University. I want to thank my family, friends, and teammates and coaches- both current and former- for helping me get to this point and for shaping me into the person I am today; I wouldn’t be where I am without them. I also want to give a special shoutout to the entire H.C. Rhode Island organization. They have been loyal to me from the very beginning, and continued to support me even after my season ending injury last year. It has been a privilege to have been a part of HCRI these past two seasons and I am incredibly grateful for the junior hockey experience everyone here has given me. Having attended Catholic school my whole life, Misericordia is not only a fit from an athletic standpoint, but also academically and religiously. From the day I visited the campus, I knew it was where I wanted to be and I couldn’t be more excited to be continuing my journey there in the fall.”
Colin is the third commitment of the season for HC Rhode Island. To view the 2025-26 EHL NCAA commitments, click here.
